In her first year of wrestling, Ariana Mendoza advanced to the State tournament in Houston.

She claimed her spot by winning the semi-final match at the Regional competition on Sat, Feb 18.

With her ticket already punched, Mendoza was coached to work on other techniques in preparation for the State tournament.

Mendoza took first in the 185 lbs weight class, while Lindsey Rittiman and Kendall McGarity took fifth in their classes. Rittiman and McGarity will represent the team as alternates.

The State tournament will be at the Berry Center in Houston on Feb 24-25.